Chinese New Year Celebration

Main: Steamed Fish with Coconut Lemongrass Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Fish:

• 1 whole fresh fish (such as snapper or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
• 2 stalks lemongrass, chopped
• 3-4 slices of ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves and sliced scallions for garnish

For the Coconut Lemongrass Sauce:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 stalks lemongrass, smashed
• 3-4 slices of galangal (or ginger as a substitute)
• 2-3 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fish: Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish, and season it with salt and white pepper. Place lemongrass, ginger, garlic, kaffir lime leaves, and red chili inside the cavity of the fish.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal (or ginger), kaffir lime leaves, and brown sugar. Simmer over low heat for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove the aromatics and stir in lime juice and salt. Set aside.
3. Steam the fish: Place the fish on a heatproof plate or dish suitable for steaming. Pour the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil evenly over the fish. Steam the fish for about 15-20 minutes, depending on its size, until it's cooked through and flakes easily.
4. While the fish is steaming, reheat the coconut lemongrass sauce.
5. Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the steamer. Pour the hot coconut lemongrass sauce over the fish.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and sliced scallions.

Starter: Crispy Tofu and Mango Salad

Toss cubes of crispy tofu with ripe mango, mixed greens, and a tangy mango-lime vinaigrette.

Dessert: Lychee and Rosewater Sorbet

A light and refreshing sorbet infused with the delicate flavors of lychee and rosewater.

Wine Pairing: Gewürztraminer or Riesling

The aromatic and slightly sweet notes of these wines complement the coconut lemongrass sauce and balance the heat of the chili pepper.

Decoration Ideas:

1. Chinese New Year Lanterns with a Twist: Instead of traditional red lanterns, use colorful and exotic paper lanterns in varying sizes and shapes. Hang them around your dining area for a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
2. Fruit-Centered Table Centerpiece: Create a centerpiece using a variety of fresh tropical fruits like pineapples, dragon fruit, and passion fruit. Add some vibrant flowers and greenery for an exotic touch.
3. Bamboo Placemats and Coconut Bowls: Replace traditional placemats with bamboo ones and serve the meal in coconut bowls. These eco-friendly elements add a rustic yet exotic flair to your Chinese New Year table setting.